LAKE TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Practical
Nursing Program
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Lake Technical College
Health Science Education Department’s Practical Nursing (PN) program. Your
future holds a rewarding and challenging health career!
This Master
Plan has been prepared to help students orient to the school and understand the
requirements of the Practical Nursing program.
This program offers a sequence of courses that
provides coherent and rigorous content. This content is aligned with
challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills
needed to prepare for careers in the Health Science career cluster and further
education. In addition, it provides technical skill proficiency,
competency-based learning, higher-order reasoning, problem-solving skills, work
attitudes, employability skills, and knowledge of all aspects of Health
Science.
This program is designed to prepare students
for employment as licensed practical nurses. The program is approved by the
Florida State Board of Nursing (BON) so the graduate may apply to take the
examination to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
The content includes, but is not limited to,
theoretical instruction and clinical experience in medical, surgical,
obstetric, pediatric, mental health, and geriatric nursing; theoretical
instruction and clinical experience in acute care, long term care and community
settings; theoretical instruction and clinical application of role and
function; personal, family and community health concepts; nutrition; human
growth and development over the life span; body structure and function;
interpersonal relationship skills, mental health concepts; pharmacology and
administration of medications; legal and ethical aspects of practice; and
current issues in nursing.
We will do
everything in our power to make this educational experience both enjoyable and
challenging. We believe that faculty and students have reciprocal rights and
duties toward each other in the education process. We will strive to instruct,
motivate, demonstrate, guide, and encourage students and facilitate learning; and
we believe students must desire and seek knowledge, display professional
behavior, demonstrate initiative by participating in their own learning,
demonstrate understanding, and always strive to give the best care possible.
All faculty
are registered nurses with years of clinical experience. Please feel free to
call on us for help at any time.
HEALTH SCIENCE EDUCATION MISSION
The mission of the Health
Science Education Department is to prepare students to meet the health care
needs of a growing and diverse population, while serving as productive members
of our local, state, national, and international communities.
PRACTICAL NURSING PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT
We believe
that nursing is both a science and an art that includes the promotion and
maintenance of optimum health standards as well as the care and rehabilitation
of the sick and the teaching of appropriate health care. It is our belief that
the practical nurse is an essential and distinct part of the health care team.
We further believe that qualified students can learn to become beginning
practitioners in the following situations:
1.
Meeting the patient's needs with skill under minimal supervision
in subacute settings.
2.
Assisting the professional registered nurse or physician under
direct supervision when the needs of the patient require more complex
judgments, skills, and techniques.
We believe
the curriculum must have a unified and organized pattern. The educational
experiences should be meaningful and build from simple to complex and should
provide opportunities to apply new learning directly to real life situations or
nursing practice. All facts and concepts drawn from physical, biological, and
social sciences should be selected because of their direct importance to the
process of learning to care for patients.
We believe
that continuous evaluation of a student’s progress is necessary in measuring
the effectiveness of instruction and in achieving the stated objectives of the
program.
We believe
that Practical Nursing education is a continuous process that must continue
after completion of the program and throughout the LPN’s career to keep the
practitioner accountable for and alert to current trends and practices in the
health field and to develop leadership potential.
ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
The Practical
Nursing program admission policy requires that applicants must be at least 18
years of age, have a high school diploma or GED and must be academically,
physically, and emotionally capable of meeting the demands of the program
chosen. Applicants make initial application through the Admissions Office.
The Practical
Nursing program has the following minimum admission requirements. Students must:
1.
Complete an LTC online application.
2.
Be at least 18 years of age.
3.
Have a standard high school diploma or its equivalent (GED).
4.
Meet the definition of Good Moral Character and be able to perform
Essential Physical and Emotional requirements.
5.
If applicable, provide verification of application for financial
aid or a signed waiver statement.
6.
Meet the minimum levels on the nursing entrance exam – Test of
Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)
7.
Submit copies of any postsecondary certificates or transcripts.
8.
Submit proof of a physical exam prior to the start of the program. The physical must document negative 2-step Tuberculin
test and/or chest x-ray (within one year’s time), recent Tetanus inoculation
and booster required once per 10 years, current MMR immunizations and Hepatitis
B vaccination as well as two Varicella vaccines or a blood test verifying
immunity. A flu shot is required during flu season.
9.
Submit a completed residency form with documentation to
Admissions.
10.
Have a negative drug screen (to be conducted at the start of the program
and randomly during the program).
11.
Have
a level two criminal background report (owned by LTC) without any felony
convictions prior to the start of the program.
12.
The
Florida Board of Nursing does have specific requirements for students related
to potential reasons for disqualification for application for licensure. This
is readily accessible on the Florida Board of Nursing (FBON) website. Several
Florida Statutes also govern candidacy for licensure and are accessible on-line
and through the FBON website.
When the
requirements have been met and documented, the applicant's packet is considered
complete. Consideration for selection will be based on the applicant's test
scores, academic achievement, work experience, health-related professional
experience and TEAS test score results.
Acceptance
and continuance in the program is conditional based upon results of a physical
exam, background check without any felonies regardless of adjudication, and
random drug screens.
Instructions
for receiving a background check are included at the end of the acceptance
packet. While there are many companies that provide this service, this is
provided as reliable and low-cost method.
TEST
OF ADULT BASIC EDUCATION (TABE)
All applicants for
Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs 450 hours or more, with the
exception of Florida Law Enforcement Academy applicants, take a state mandated
TABE prior to enrollment. TABE scores are good for two years and must be valid
at the time of enrollment.
Several exemptions to
TABE are accepted. In order to be exempt, a student must submit official
documentation to a career advisor for verification of an exemption:
1. Applicants
who have earned a standard State of Florida high school diploma, 2007 or later,
or possess a documented degree (AA, AS, AAS, BA or BS) may be exempt from TABE
testing. (s.1004.91).
2. Applicants
who have earned a State of Florida High School diploma via the GED® test no
more than two years prior to the start of class.
3. Students
taking any accepted standardized tests such as PERT or ACT may be exempt from
the TABE provided the scores are at satisfactory levels and the test was taken
within two years of enrollment in a Career and Technical Education program
(6A-10315, 6A-10.040).
4. A
student who has completed or who is exempt from the college-level communication
and computation skills (CLAST) examination pursuant to s.1008.29 is also exempt
from the TABE. Per s. 1008.29.
5. Documented
successful completion of college-level remedial coursework may be used to meet
TABE requirement.
6. Documented
passing scores on state-designated industry certification tests may be used.
7. Mandated
TABE exit scores may be waived for documented special needs students as per
Florida guidelines. The student must enroll in AAAE and begin remediation in
order to meet the exit requirements of the CTE program in which the student is
enrolled. A student, with a documented disability, who is approaching
completion (mastered 90% of the competencies) of the CTE program and has not
met TABE scores, may be considered for a TABE exemption based on the following.
It is determined through a SIT meeting that the student has successfully
mastered the competencies of the CTE program in which she/he is enrolled and
has been participating as expected in AAAE. The members of the SIT meeting may
agree to waive TABE requirements.
Mandated
TABE exit sores may be waived for documented special needs students as per
Florida guidelines. The student must enroll in AAAE and begin remediation in
order to meet the exit requirements of the CTE program in which the student is
enrolled. A student, with a documented disability, who is approaching
completion (mastered 90% of the competencies) of the CTE program and has not
met TABE scores, may be considered for a TABE exemption based on the following.
It is determined through a SIT meeting that the student has successfully
mastered the competencies of the CTE program in which she/he is enrolled and
has been participating as expected in AAAE. The members of the SIT meeting may
agree to waive TABE requirements.
According
to Florida Department of Education rules, students who fail all or parts of the
TABE may only retest using a different TABE version after 60 documented hours
of remediation in the Applied Academics for Adult Education (AAAE) lab or three
months if not attending AAAE. Students
may not retake the same test version for six months. We, therefore, strongly
recommend that students test early, especially for licensure programs, in order
to allow time for remediation and retesting should the need arise.
Students
who do not meet the minimum TABE scores set by the Florida Department of
Education for their program must begin attending remediation classes in the
AAAE lab prior to or at the time of enrollment in a Career and Technical
Education program for at least one block a day and make acceptable progress as
determined by the AAAE faculty. Students should meet state mandated TABE
requirements by the time they have completed 50% of their program. Students who
do not meet state mandated TABE scores may not receive a certificate of
completion as per Florida Department of Education rules.
Applicants transferring
appropriately leveled TABE, PERT or other accepted standardized test scores
from other testing centers must do so by having an official score report sent
directly to the Admissions Office prior to enrollment in the program. Scores
brought by hand will be accepted only if document provided by the outside
testing center is in a sealed envelope. Standardized tests scores are valid for
two years.
TEST OF ESSENTIAL ACADEMIC SKILLS
(TEAS)
Lake
Technical College requires that students entering the Practical Nursing program
take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). This test assists in
determining the student’s readiness for the rigorous challenges of the nursing
curriculum. Lake Technical College
offers the opportunity for students to take the TEAS at its Eustis campus
Testing Center. Contact the Admissions Department for more information on this
testing schedule. NOTE: If an
applicant has taken the TEAS at Lake Technical College, or elsewhere, Lake
Technical College will accept the results for two (2) years after the testing
date. Students are encouraged to retake the exam, if they feel better results
can be achieved.
Florida State Board of Nursing
In order to sit for the licensure exam, (NCLEX-PN), the student must:
1.
Be in good mental and physical health.
2.
Have a standard high school diploma or the equivalent.
3.
Have comprehension of the English language, written and oral,
sufficient to take the State Board Exam written in English.
4.
Have a valid United States social security number.
By law, applicants must notify the
State Board of Nursing (BON) of any previous arrest record in which he/she was
convicted and found guilty regardless of adjudication before being allowed to
sit for the State Board exams. Prior to application for
examination, convicted felons must obtain a "restoration of their civil
rights" in order to be eligible to sit for the examination. If an applicant has been convicted of any
offense other than a minor traffic violation, the applicant shall submit arrest
and court records stating the nature of the offense and final disposition of
the case so that a determination can be made by the Board whether the offense
relates to the practice of nursing or to the ability to practice nursing. The
SBN reserves the right to take disciplinary action before granting permission
to sit for the licensure exam in accordance with Florida State Statutes.
ESSENTIAL TASKS
Health
related occupations are demanding, both physically and emotionally. Before entering
a program in the health field, it is important to review the following tasks
which have been established. Their performance is essential for success in the
program.
|
Physical Requirements |
Mental and Emotional Requirements |
|
|
|
o Ability
to cope with the anger/fear/hostility of others in a calm manner |
|
|
|
o Ability
to concentrate without assistance and adaptation. o Ability
to cope with confrontation |
|
o
Ability to handle multiple priorities in a
stressful situation o
Ability to assist with problem resolution o
Ability to work in areas that are close and
crowded |
NOTE: The safety and well-being of our students is
a primary concern. Students are responsible for self-reporting any medical
conditions, illnesses, or injuries which may affect performance of the required
essential tasks to the program faculty in a timely manner. The reporting of these conditions is for your
safety as well as the safety of those we care for and interact with. A determination can then be made regarding
the possible need for medical clearance from a physician, to determine if the
student’s level of participation in the program requires modification.
In the event that
a student is deemed to have a medical condition, illness, or injury which may
prevent, or hinder the student from performing the required essential tasks, medical
evaluation and clearance from a licensed physician, a nurse practitioner, or a
physician’s assistant will be required to continue participation in the Practical
Nursing program. See faculty or Health Science Education Department Chair
for documentation requirements.
MORAL CHARACTER
According
to Florida Statutes, nurses must be screened through the Florida Department of
Law Enforcement (FDLE) PRIOR to employment and must meet the standards of good
moral character. A history of the following offenses DISQUALIFIES a nurse from
employment:
|
Murder |
Incest |
|
Manslaughter |
Arson |
|
Kidnapping |
Prostitution |
|
Obscene
literature |
Assault
to a minor |
|
Sexual
battery |
Vehicular
homicide |
|
Lewd and
lascivious behavior |
Lewd and
indecent exposure |
|
Child
abuse/aggravated child abuse |
Aggravated
Assault |
|
Abuse/neglect
of disabled adult or elderly |
Exploitation
of disabled adult or elderly |
|
False
Imprisonment |
Sexual
performance by a child |
|
Negligent
treatment of children |
Killing
of unborn child by injury to mother |
|
Fraudulent
sale of controlled substance |
Theft,
robbery and related crimes if the offense is a felony |
|
Prohibited
acts of a person in familiar or custodial
authority on a child |
Relating
to drug abuse prevention and control, if offense was a felony or if other
person involved was a minor |
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND HISTORY
Due to contracts with many of the clinical
sites that are used for student patient care and the Florida Statutes, Lake
Technical College does not accept any person with a felony conviction into the
Practical Nursing Program. This includes ALL convictions,
guilty pleas and/or nolo contendere pleas to any felony violation, regardless
of adjudication or years since the time of conviction, except as outlined
below.
In addition, the Florida Legislature outlines
applicable laws related to licensure. It is prudent for all students to review
this information as well as critical licensure information. The Florida Board
of Nursing outlines information on the website.
IMPORTANT
NOTICE: Pursuant to Florida Statutes, you may
not, based upon background, be eligible for licensure. This information is
outlined in the Florida Statutes accessible on line.
BACKGROUND SCREENING - DRUG TESTING
The Agency
for Health Care Administration (ACHA) requires all employees whose
responsibilities may require them to provide personal care or services to
patients and/or residents or have access to their living area or personal
property to undergo a background screening.
A student whose background screening reveals prior arrest incidents may
be counseled regarding potential employment opportunities.
The
healthcare profession recognizes that substance abuse among its members is a
serious problem that may compromise the ability of the abuser and jeopardize
the safety of patients entrusted to their care. The College, in its effort to
maintain high standards of education and clinical practice and to comply with
requirements mandated by cooperating clinical facilities, has implemented a
drug-testing program. The purpose of the drug testing is to identify students
who may be chemically impaired and unable to perform expected duties causing
concern for the health and safety of the student and/or those under his/her
care. If at any time during a pre-clinical screening, random screening or
reasonable cause screening, a student refuses to be tested, the student will be
withdrawn from the program. If at any time the student’s drug test is positive
and has not been medically approved, the student will be withdrawn from the
program. NOTE:
Students are responsible for payment of all fees related to drug screening.
INSURANCE
As a
clinical requirement, students must show proof of accident insurance. Any
student who does not have proof of private health care insurance coverage may
purchase the school accident insurance to fulfill this requirement. This
insurance must be maintained without lapse until completion of the program. There
is no exception for programs that begin off cycle to the schools insurance
program. This insurance is provided at a very reasonable cost and provides
coverage during school hours.
Information regarding purchase of school accident insurance may be
obtained from the College’s Admission Office and at the "New Student
Orientation".
ACCOMMODATIONS
Federal and state legislation requires the
provision of accommodations for students with disabilities as identified on the
secondary student’s IEP or 504 plan or postsecondary student’s accommodations
plan to meet individual needs to ensure equal access. Postsecondary students
with disabilities must self-identify, present documentation, request
accommodations if needed, and develop a plan with their postsecondary provider.
Students desiring accommodations or updates to
their accommodations are encouraged to self-identify as early in the program as
possible. In order to receive disability accommodations, students must
self-disclose the disability to the Students with Disabilities Coordinator and
provide documentation that clearly shows evidence of a disability and
applicable accommodations. The Students with Disabilities Coordinator will
schedule a meeting with the student and faculty to discuss the documented
disability and applicable accommodations.
Accommodations received in postsecondary education may
differ from those received in secondary education. Accommodations change the
way the student is instructed. Students with disabilities may need
accommodations in such areas as instructional methods and materials,
assignments, assessments, time demands, schedules, learning environment,
assistive technology and special communication systems. Documentation of the
accommodation requested and provided is maintained in a confidential file.
TUITION
Tuition is charged for adult students at a rate
established by the State legislature. Current fee information is available in
the Admissions Office. Tuition is waived for eligible high school dual-enrolled
students. Tuition is due prior to the first day of each semester based on
the Lake Technical College payment calendar. Failure to pay all fees due at the
time class begins will result in not being able to attend class and/or clinical
if applicable.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Absences
In
an effort to develop appropriate work ethics, students are expected to attend
all class sessions. As is expected in the workplace, when it is necessary to be
absent due to illness or emergency situations, all students are to notify the faculty
no later than one hour before the beginning of class or clinical on the
date of absence. Failure to comply with this notification process will result
in a counseling session with the faculty and/or the Health Science Education
Department Chair. None of us plan to have
an unscheduled absence, and we take into account that emergencies happen. However, our employers (faculty) and our
patients are counting on us. With this
in mind, it is imperative that you develop a plan to ensure compliance with
this requirement in order not to jeopardize your good standing in the
class. The student attendance policy for
each postsecondary program is consistent with industry standards.
Failure of
notification will result in:
1.
A verbal warning and written counseling for the first no-call,
no-show
2.
A written reprimand and meeting with the HSE Chairperson for the
second no-call, no-show
3.
A Student Intervention Team (SIT) meeting may be scheduled. Academic
probation, and possible dismissal from the program for the third no-call
Campus
attendance is kept via a computerized system.
It is the responsibility of the student to log in and out in order to
receive credit for class time. This allows the school to keep accurate
attendance records for the actual number of hours and minutes attended. Faculty
are not expected to manually enter student attendance. Only one override is
permitted for failure to log in or out. Therefore, failure of a student to log
in and out may result in a documented absence. Logging in or out for another
student or having another student log in or out is unacceptable behavior and
may result in dismissal.
Only regularly scheduled class hours will be
reported for attendance. Make-up time will not be accepted except as approved
by the Executive Director of Lake Technical College.
Students who are absent
for six (6) consecutive class and/or clinical sessions will be withdrawn from the
Practical Nursing program. Withdrawn students must re-apply and re-register for
the next PN program, when space is available.
Attendance
is extremely important in the Practical Nursing program. A
student who finds it necessary to be absent MUST notify the faculty directly at
least one hour prior to the start of class/clinical that day. Students must notify the faculty as soon as
possible if they have to leave early.
Excessive
Absences
Excessive absences may result in an
unsatisfactory knowledge, skills, and/or professional skills grade and can
result in termination from the program.
A student who
is absent for six (6) consecutive class sessions will be withdrawn from
enrollment in his/her program. A student withdrawn for absenteeism must
petition administration to return. A student having medical documentation or
documentation of an extenuating circumstance does not need to petition to
return. Students exhibiting a pattern of consecutive absences less than six
days will be subject to dismissal as determined by a School Intervention Team.
It is the
responsibility of each student to be aware of their absences (minute by
minute). Students may monitor their
attendance using the student web portal located in the LTC website.
Any student
whose absences exceed 5% of the cumulative number of hours for the grading
periods (Defined
as Practical Nursing 1 [PN1], Practical Nursing 2 [PN2], Practical Nursing 3,
[PN3]), Practical Nursing 4 and Practical Nursing 5 are
on probation. The purpose of probation is to formally
notify and appropriately document an existing condition that may be
jeopardizing the ability of a student to successfully complete the Practical
Nursing program.
Consequences
of being placed on probation:
1.
Placed on Behavior Contract – With scheduled follow up meeting to
determine progress
2.
May be required to attend remediation sessions.
3.
Jeopardize enrollment in the class
4.
Become ineligible for the Practical Nursing Assist Loan (PAL)
Probationary
status will terminate when the terms of the contract have been satisfied or
when the number of hours absent does not exceed the cumulative 5% of the hours
to that point in the program.
Students on
probation for excessive absences may continue in the program only as long as
they are making satisfactory progress in the theory and clinical areas, and
that the excessive absences are due to extenuating circumstances such as
hospitalization, emergency surgery, or extreme personal hardship. Excessive absences will impact the professional
skills grade and/or may result in withdrawal from the program. Any specific requirements attached to the
probationary status will be discussed at that time and will become part of the
written contract. Students have the right to appeal by following the school
Grievance Policy.
Because
this is a licensure program, the student must successfully complete a minimum
of 1282 of the 1350 hours in the program.
If the student does not complete the minimum of 1282 hours, the student
will be required to re-enroll and pay tuition for those hours needed to meet
minimum requirements. Do note that space must be available. A student may also
apply for a waiver which, if granted
by the Executive Director of Lake Technical College, may allow make up
time. The faculty must have both the space and availability for the student to
complete all missed hours to meet program requirements. Practical Nursing
program completer’s name will be submitted to the State Board of Nursing only AFTER all requirements of the
program are satisfied.
Tardiness
As in the workplace, students are expected to clock
in and be in their seats promptly in the morning, after break, and after lunch.
Students are expected to notify the faculty directly before the start of class
of any anticipated tardiness. Any student who is tardy and/or leaves early for
20% or more of the number of classes scheduled for any given grading period
will be placed on academic probation.
Probationary status will terminate when the number of tardiness/early
departures no longer exceeds 20% of the completed scheduled classes. Because the program is preparing students for
a professional work setting, it is important that the student understand that chronic tardiness/early departures may
result in being withdrawn from the program.
Leaving Campus during School Hours
For safety reasons, students will notify their faculty
when leaving campus early. Students may leave campus for lunch provided this is
done within the allotted time.
For evening classes, it is recommended that
students bring their lunch/dinner, as even the closest fast-food establishment
will not allow for enough time to adequately consume lunch/dinner in the
allotted time.
Students who
need to leave clinical for emergencies, or other approved reasons, may not
return until the next scheduled day. If
class or clinical was left as a result of an illness or injury, the student may
not return to class/clinical until they are cleared – in writing – to return to class/clinical with no restrictions by a
licensed independent practitioner (MD, PA or ARNP). The faculty will use their discretion as to
whether or not an illness will require physician clearance. ALL injuries will require clearance in
writing from a physician. Lake Technical
College does not want students to attend class or clinical when injured or
ill. Doing so may be a detriment to the
ill or injured student, patients, fellow classmates, faculty, and other
staff. The faculty reserve the right to dismiss a student early from class or
clinical if they feel the student is not able to perform the expected tasks due
to his/her injury or illness.
CLASS SCHEDULE
The
Practical Nursing program is a rigorous 1350-hour program of education
consisting of 675 classroom hours and 675 clinical hours. Remediation, additional skills practice, make
up exams are arranged with the clinical faculty.
Hours of
clinical instruction will vary but provide around eight hours of instruction
per day and may begin as early as 6:30 a.m. or end as late as 11:00 p.m. Based
upon the ability of clinical sites to accommodate students, clinical rotations
may also include night shift as well as weekend rotations. All clinical
schedules will be posted well in advance. Students are expected to plan
accordingly, to include ensuring he/she has reliable transportation to and from
all clinical sites.
CAMPUS SAFETY
Lake
Technical College makes every effort to provide a safe environment for all students,
visitors, faculty and staff. Basic
safety standards, which will include fire drills, weather drills, equipment
usage, and traffic regulations, will be covered in the program
orientation. These basic safety
standards will be reinforced throughout the program enrollment. See the current school catalog for additional
campus safety information.
PLAN OF INSTRUCTIONAL PRACTICES
Teaching
Methods
At Lake
Technical College, we strive to meet the needs of all learners. Pre- and post-testing, lecture, demonstration
and return, group interaction, web-based learning platforms, skills lab
testing, required reading and written assignments, oral reports, role playing,
question and answer, unit examinations, skill practice, anatomical models and
charts, self-directed learning activity packages, clinical experience and field
trips are among the teaching methods utilized.
Online
Access
Technology is an integral part of our daily
lives. From smart phones to electronic tablets, these devices are
becoming items that many cannot function without. In addition, the
Internet is changing the way education is delivered. Lake Technical
College strives to ensure that our students are able to compete in this
technology driven world. With this in mind, it is recommended that
students have an online presence and access to the internet.
It is also important that students have an
email address that they check on a regular basis. A lot of information
may come to you through your email, so it is important that you check it
regularly. If you do not have an email address, there are numerous
services that provide FREE email addresses. Please make sure your faculty
have a current, working email address for you. See your faculty for more
information.
Edmodo and /or Schoology are interactive
sites that are used exclusively as a means for faculty and student
communication. It is expected that all students complete the registration
process as appropriate and monitor their Edmodo or Schoology account routinely
for critical communication.
Social
Media
The advent of social media has created a
world-wide communication medium for persons of all ages. While extremely
popular, these websites have also created their own set of “not-so-popular”
problems such as cyber-stalking, identity theft, cyber-bullying, cyber-cheating
(posting of exam, or other course material), and a host of other nebulous
challenges that users may face. Another reality associated with social media is
its far-reaching consequences for those who share posts that may be seen by
others as inappropriate.
Potential employers, current employers, civic,
or educational organizations you may be associated with, and many others are
looking at social media sites for information that may tell them things about
an individual. Students should also be cautioned on how private their social
media content really is – despite the settings on an account. All social media sites are potentially
vulnerable. A simple search of how to
view pages that are set as “private” for a popular social media website yielded
numerous responses for ways to view the content. Everything from blogs to
online videos offer to explain how to accomplish this task.
Students in all
programs need to be cognizant of the fact that most professions rely on great
moral character. It is recommended that when using social media, assume that
all posts will be seen/read by everyone with access to the internet.
Program Safety
The
Practical Nursing Program provides real-world experiences that prepare students
to become licensed nurses. Faculty will
discuss and enforce safety practices for the classroom, laboratory and clinical
settings. Continuous implementation of
safety principles will occur throughout the length of the program. Each student will demonstrate skills in the
lab environment and must meet competency standards, to include proficient
safety practices associated with all skills, prior to performance in the
clinical setting. A student who is not
deemed safe in the classroom, laboratory, or clinical setting by any program faculty
will be removed from that environment and remediated on the identified
practice(s). Repeated observance of unsafe practice(s) could lead to dismissal
from the program.
Evaluation
Class
performance, skills performance, pre- and post-testing, unit examinations,
practical test evaluation (laboratory and clinical), required written and
workbook assignments, on-line postings, on-line exit tickets, Exam View testing
or Exam View assessments, clinical observation of performance objectives during
clinical experiences, decision making, attendance, professional skills, Elsevier
content/ HESI tests as well as tests, and achievement of entry-level
competencies and other methods are used for evaluation.
Work
Based Activities
Work-based
learning activities play an integral part of the curriculum of Lake Technical College’s
programs. These activities are planned with two objectives in mind. First, the
activity provides students with the opportunity to develop and apply a “real
world” experience using the knowledge and skills attained in the program.
Second, the activity provides the faculty with objective input from potential
employers or customers of program graduates. Each work-based activity has a
written instructional plan outlining objectives, experiences, competencies and
evaluation required during the activity.
Clinical
Experience/Practicum
Students
will receive clinical experience under the direct supervision of their faculty
and/or preceptor.
Clinical Rotations and Skill
Performance
Students
must demonstrate the performance of all advanced skills in the simulated
setting prior to utilizing these skills in the clinical practice setting.
Advanced
skills are skills that are specific to the PN role and not associated with
activities of daily living. Once the student has successfully mastered a
practical nursing skill and is checked off by an instructor the student may
perform the skill in the practice setting under the supervision of their
instructor.
Once deemed
competent to perform a practical nursing skill in both the simulated and
practice setting the student may perform the skill under the direct
supervision of the responsible nurse or instructor.
NOTE: Any
student performing advanced skills or administering medication(s) independently
is subject to immediate dismissal.
Should this occur, then student will be sent home and may not return to the
clinical area or to the classroom pending a SIT (Student Intervention Team)
meeting. Dismissal may occur at the time of the meeting.
Experience
Opportunities
Opportunities
to participate in clinical experiences alongside professional nurses may be
assigned as part of the Practical Nursing program. Volunteer experiences may be available to
students as part of their program training. These opportunities are designed to
give the student actual hands-on experience performing a variety of nursing-related
tasks. Length and type of experiences may vary.
The program faculty determines appropriateness of the experience.
Additional information regarding experience opportunities may be obtained from
the faculty.
GRADING PROCEDURE
Lake
Technical College is a postsecondary institution designed to provide trained individuals
to industry. The grading scale for the Practical Nursing program reflects
industry standards, as recommended by the Licensed Practical Nursing Advisory Committee.
The Licensed Practical Nursing Advisory Committee is comprised of industry
professionals with current industry knowledge, and approved by the
administration of Lake Technical College.
Grading
Scale for the Practical Nursing Program
93-100 Outstanding Progress
85-92 Average Progress
77-84
Passing
< 77 Failing
Program
grades are based on the three criteria:
Knowledge, Skills and Professional Skills (Work Habits). Each area counts as one-third of the final
grade for the grading period. Classroom, laboratory, and clinical performance
will be included in grades. Each of these must be passed individually with a
77% or greater for the student to remain in the program.
According to testing design best practices, the
following rules apply for tests given on content/subject material.
1. Extra
credit questions are not permissible.
2. Grades
cannot exceed 100%.
3. Exam questions:
· If 35% or more of the students answer a question
incorrectly, the question and the responses will be assessed.
· If after review it is
determined that question(s) needs to be excluded, then all student grades will
be recalculated.
· Students
who answered excluded question(s) correctly will not be penalized for
providing correct answer(s).
Example: There is a 50 question exam. Two questions were missed by 35% or more of
the class or greater. After a thorough review
by faculty of the content covered with students and the students’ preparatory responsibilities, the faculty made
the determination to exclude the questions for those students whose exam showed
an incorrect response. The point value of the question(s) will be awarded to all students’ exams. It should be noted that this procedure is not
intended to reward students with incorrect responses but merely to allow for a
re-evaluation of the content to ensure that curriculum is learned and retained.
NOTE:
1) An assessment of any question(s) that fall(s) into this
category does NOT constitute automatic exclusion of the question(s) from the
exam. This determination is to be made at the faculty discretion.
2) A student who
earned a 100% prior to exclusion of any question(s) cannot carry-over or “bank”
points for other exam, or assignment. Points awarded to student(s) will only
apply to exam associated with exclusion(s) – they cannot be carried-over,
or “banked” for another exam or assignment. Points are NOT transferable.
4.
To remain in the
program:
·
A student must maintain a 77% average for each
course/system/unit didactically and in each PN segment (PN1, PN2, PN3, PN4 and
PN5) regarding skills and professional skills.
·
All course/unit/system exams will account for 60%
of the PN1, PN2, PN3, PN4 or PN5 didactic grade. The mid-term exam, HESI exam (as applicable)
and the final exam will account for 30% of the PN1, PN2, PN3, PN4 or PN5
didactic grade. Homework assignments/ presentations and projects account for
the remaining 10% of the final academic grade
·
Projects, case studies, presentations, and oral
reports, if assigned, will be counted as homework assignments unless otherwise
specifically designated by faculty.
·
The Medication Math Examination requires a minimum
passing grade of 85%. If the student
does not pass the Medication Math Examination, remediation is scheduled by the faculty.
A second attempt is allowed, and it will be scheduled by the faculty in a
timely manner. A student who is
unsuccessful on the second attempt will be withdrawn from the program.
·
All Clinical Skills and Safe Medication Administration
Check Off must be passed by the third attempt. If a third attempt is necessary,
the student will be evaluated by two faculty. A Clinical Skills failure, to
include the Safe Medication Administration Check Off failure, is considered a
clinical failure.
·
Medication
Errors may result in dismissal from the program. In the event the student is
permitted to remain in the program, the following are required:
·
Student will immediately counseled and exited from the clinical site.
At that time the student will be sent for a random drug screen. This will be at
the student’s expense.
·
The student will be assigned to write a 5-10 page research paper on
medical errors, prevalence and prevention. This will also require a segment
specific to medication errors, prevalence and prevention along with related
accreditation standards. References are to be included and must be from
well-known and credible sources. The paper is to be handwritten and legible.
·
The student will have to repeat a laboratory based skill check off and
will be directly monitored by the instructor for 10 medication passes.
5. Missed
Tests
·
If a test is not taken at the time the test begins, 5 points are deducted. If a test is not taken on the same day of the
scheduled test, 10 points are deducted. Based on documentation of extenuating
circumstances, the department chair may waive this penalty.
·
Appointments for missed tests must be scheduled
through the faculty on the first day back to class/clinical.
·
The missed test must be taken as soon as an
appointment is available. Missed tests must be taken within 5 scheduled school
days (classroom and clinical). Failure
to show to take the missed test will result in a zero grade. Any exceptions
must be approved by the Department Chair.
·
Missed tests are not generally scheduled during
class/clinical time.
·
Tests scheduled on the day of the student’s
return must be taken at the time scheduled.
A missed test does not qualify a student to attend remediation.
6. Projects
(Written/Oral Presentations/Case Studies etc.)
·
If a project is not submitted by the deadline
date and time, 5 points will be deducted from the grade for every day late, including
weekends and holidays.
·
Extra
credit projects are not permissible.
·
Every
project must have a corresponding Rubric used for evaluation of the completed
work
·
All course/unit/system exams and written/oral
assignments will account for 70% of the PN1, PN2, PN3, PN4 or PN5 didactic
grade. The final exam(s), along with HESI
and/ or midterm as applicable, will account for 30% of the PN1, PN2, PN3, PN4 or
PN5 didactic grade.
·
NOTE: Written and oral projects may be assigned
as a homework assignment. Homework assignments are graded and account for 10%
of the academic grade.
7. Remediation (Pathways to Success)
·
Students who are
required to attend scheduled remediation sessions will be expected to
participate.
·
Students who fail to
participate in remediation sessions will not be allowed to retest a failed
exam.
·
Maximum test score
result for a remediated exam is 77%
·
Faculty will notify the
student of date and time of remediation. This time is not anticipated to be
>7days. Only one remediation session is scheduled. Extraordinary
circumstances are to be brought to the faculty or Health Sciences chairperson.
·
Remediation retests are
limited to one per module or system but not limited to that specific module or
system but rather to the OCP. .
o For example, During the OCP for PN 1, 3 subjects are
covered (Anatomy and Physiology, Growth and Development and Foundations) so a
student in PN 1 is permitted 3 re-takes.
·
Any student
participating in remediation is encouraged to contact the career counselor for
coaching session(s).
o NOTE: Remediation will
not be permitted for a missed test or a final exam.
KNOWLEDGE (33 1/3% of the grade)
The
Knowledge grade is based on written exams and assignments. A student must maintain
a passing average for each course/system/unit didactically and in PN1, PN2, PN3,
PN4 and PN5. A minimum overall KNOWLEDGE average
of 77% per unit is required to remain in and successfully complete the PN
program.
PROFESSIONAL SKILLS (Work Habits) (33 1/3% of
the grade)
The Professional
Skills grade is based on personal appearance, attitude, attendance and
punctuality. This grade is based on established criteria and reviewed with each
student throughout each grading period. A
minimum PROFESSIONAL SKILLS grade of 77% per grading period is required to
remain in and successfully complete the PN program.
Effective professional skills are the
cornerstone to successful employment.
Students are expected to demonstrate productive professional skills
during all phases of enrollment. Faculty
will work with students who need assistance in this area to improve the overall
possibility for successful employment.
Attendance:
Attends
class for all scheduled hours assigned, arrives/leaves on time, contributes to
class discussion and is actively involved in all activities.
Character: Displays academic
integrity (inclusive of not committing plagiarism), trustworthiness,
dependability, reliability, self-discipline, and self-responsibility.
Teamwork: Respects the rights of
others; is a team worker; is cooperative; ensures confidentiality in all
classroom, clinical and other matters; demonstrates professional behavior in
interactions with peers, preceptors, and faculty.
Appearance: Displays appropriate
dress, grooming, hygiene, and wears full regulation uniform of the day.
Attitude: Displays a willingness
to cooperate and accept constructive criticism; sets realistic expectations;
approaches assignments with interest and initiative.
Productivity: Follows safety
practices; conserves materials and supplies; maintains equipment; stays on task
and utilizes time constructively; demonstrates proactive learning through
involvement in activities and contributions to class discussions.
Organization: Manifests skill in
prioritizing and management of time and stress; demonstrates flexibility in
handling change; completes assignments on time; uses work time appropriately.
Communication: Contacts faculty to
report concerns; notifies faculty of tardy/absence before start of class; seeks
clarification and understanding through appropriate, pertinent questions.
Leadership:
Displays
leadership skills; appropriately handles conflict and concerns; demonstrates
problem-solving capability; maintains appropriate relationships with
supervisors/faculty and peers; follows the chain of command.
Respect: (Professionalism) Deals
appropriately with cultural/racial diversity; does not engage in harassment of
any kind to include but not limited to verbal, nonverbal, and written;
addresses faculty and peers in appropriate tone and with appropriate language
to include but not limited to electronic (email, text, etc.) communications.
SKILLS (Clinical) (33 1/3% of the grade)
The Skills grade is
based on performance in the lab and clinical settings. A CLINICAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION is
completed and reviewed with each student throughout each grading period. A minimum SKILLS grade of 77% per grading
period is required to remain in and successfully complete the PN program.
If a
student does not show satisfactory academic progress, the student will be
referred to counseling and, if necessary, to a Student Intervention Team (SIT)
meeting to review the appropriateness of program placement.
Program Progress
Students
are required to complete the program of training within the hours allotted by
the State of Florida for completion.
Progress must be at a rate that will allow completion of the program
within the number of hours stated in the Curriculum Framework (http://www.fldoe.org/workforce/dwdframe/).
Failure to
progress at this rate may impact financial aid and will require the student to
meet with the program faculty, Health Science Education chairperson, a College advisor
and an administrator by way of a SIT meeting in order to identify an appropriate
completion point or to assist the student in selecting a more appropriate
training program.
Students
will receive a written assessment of grades at the end of each grading period. If at any time during the grading period a
student’s academic and/or clinical progress falls below the expected standard,
the student will be counseled as to the steps required to bring the grade to a
satisfactory level before the end of the grading period.
Remediation (Pathway to Success)
Your faculty
are committed to your success in this program. To that end, opportunities for
extra practice of skills, assistance with academics and remediation are
available. Remediation sessions are scheduled by the faculty. Students wanting
extra help will be expected to arrive on time and ready to learn.
REQUIREMENTS FOR PROGRAM COMPLETION - CERTIFICATION
Students
must meet the following program requirements for certification:
·
Achieve required TABE scores or allowable exemption
·
Successfully complete all competencies specified in the program
State of Florida curriculum framework for the year in which the student began program,
unless the student is rejoining a program at a later date, where the current
class year DOE standards must be met.
·
Maintain at least a 77% average in each area of Knowledge, Skills
and Professional Skills
·
Demonstrate proficiency in all program competencies listed in the DOE
standards and stated in the Master Plan of Instruction
·
Attend at least 1282 of the 1350 program hours.
Reasons for Withdrawal
1)
Unsatisfactory academic, simulation/skills lab or clinical work.
2)
Lack of aptitude for nursing as demonstrated by unsafe performance
and poor professional judgment in the clinical area such as, but not limited
to, endangering a patient's safety by:
3)
Violating standard safety practices in the care of patients.
4)
Delaying care that is within the student’s realm of ability and/or
knowledge.
5)
Performing skills or procedures beyond the realm of the student's
ability and/or knowledge.
a)
NOTE: Any
student performing advanced skills or administering medication(s) independently
is subject to immediate dismissal.
Should this occur, then student will be sent home and may not return to the
clinical area or to the classroom pending a SIT (Student Intervention Team)
meeting. Dismissal may occur at the time of the meeting.
6)
Failure to perform patient identification using
two identifiers PRIOR to
administering any medication.
a)
NOTE: Standard procedure is to ask the patient
their name and date of birth, check their patient identification bracelet and
compare to the medical record. When speaking to the patient you say, “Tell me
your name and DOB”, not “Are you Susie Smith born 9-9-1999?”
7)
Being found
in any restricted or unauthorized area.
8)
Unethical
conduct such as fraud, drug abuse, alcohol abuse, breach of confidentiality
(HIPPA violation); inappropriate nurse/patient interaction or interpersonal
relation; or aggressive, disrespectful, or dishonest behavior to any school or
hospital staff member, physician, patient, or other student, defined as
follows:
9)
Aggressive
behavior is defined as a forceful, self-assertive action or attitude that is
expressed physically, verbally, non-verbally, or symbolically and is manifested
by physical, verbal, or emotionally abusive or destructive acts towards oneself
or others. No bullying will be tolerated.
10) Dishonest behavior is defined as an untruthful,
untrustworthy, or unreliable action.
11) Disrespectful behavior.
12) Cheating in any manner.
(1)
Sharing,
posting, photographing, or copying test material/graded content, in any way,
will not be tolerated.
(2)
Plagiarism
will not be tolerated.
13) Withdrawal from a hospital or participating
agency as the result of due process proceedings based upon a written request
from the agency that the student be withdrawn.
14) Violations of the attendance policy.
15) Failure to satisfy identified probationary
requirements within the stated time.
16) Failure to comply with requirements as stated
in the Master Plan of Instruction.
Re-Admission
At the direction
of the Practical Nursing faculty and administration, students who withdraw from
the Practical Nursing program, in good standing, may be considered for
re-admission at a later date. Students will be allowed to repeat only one time.
Students exited for clinical failure will be considered for readmission upon
submission of an appeal. NOTE: ALL re-entry requests will also depend on
space availability within the program the student is requesting to return to
and the program curriculum must be the identical state provided curriculum
prescribed.
Readmission is contingent upon the
following:
1.
Students re-applying after six months may be admitted on a space
available basis.
a.
Applicants must reenter the program at the beginning of PN1, PN2,
PN3, PN4 or PN5 etc. dependent upon the time of course exit.
b.
Upon reentry, the student will be responsible for the balance of
requirements concurrent with the program schedule.
c.
The curriculum framework for the year of re-entry must match the
framework for the year of exit.
Transfer Students
The
individual must satisfy all admission criteria required by the school and the
PN program. From the previous nursing
school, an official transcript of grades and a letter of recommendation from
the program director and one faculty are required. Credit for courses taken at public
institutions will be awarded based upon the state common course-numbering
guidelines (see catalog for details).
Courses from private or out-of-state institutions will be evaluated
based upon curricula and transferred grades (77% minimum) by the chairperson
and guidance counselor.
Applicants from Other Health Care Disciplines
Previous
experience and education will be evaluated on an individual basis and credit
will be given for courses deemed appropriate based on curriculum content.
STUDENT DRESS CODE
As
stated in the Code of Student Conduct approved by the Lake Technical College Board
of Directors, students who attend Lake Technical College shall dress in a
manner appropriate for the job in which they are receiving training, including
any special protective gear and professional uniforms. The postsecondary program student dress code
is consistent with industry standards as recommended by the program advisory
committee and approved by the administration of Lake Technical College.
Practical
Nursing Dress Guidelines
Appropriate
dress for the program shall consist of what is generally acceptable dress in
health care facilities in the Lake County area.
The uniform is to be worn with pride and dignity, and good grooming must
be carefully observed. Appropriate dress
will constitute a portion of each student’s professional skills grade. Specifically, this means all Practical
Nursing students will wear:
1.
CLINICAL
AND CLASSROOM: A clean red scrub top in the
approved style. Clean matching black
scrub pants in approved style for men; clean black scrub skirt in approved
style or clean black scrub pants in approved style for women. All uniforms must
be clean and free from wrinkles.
2.
Clean plain
black socks crew length for men; black hosiery for women with skirt and black crew
length socks with scrub pants.
3.
Clean, all black, non-cloth, closed heel and toe
shoes, in oxford or athletic style for classroom and clinical. Shoelaces, if applicable, must be clean and black.
4.
A watch with a second hand, stethoscope, bandage scissors, pen
light and a pen with black ink.
5.
Lake Technical College monogram on scrub top and on scrub
jacket. Students may wear a black Under
Armor style t-shirt or long sleeve shirt under their uniform if desired for
warmth.
6.
Forearm sleeves in black may be worn by students wishing to use
them to cover tattoos. A pair must be worn.
7.
A Lake Technical College student picture I.D. is to be worn whenever
the student is in the classroom or in the clinical setting.
For patient and staff safety, the following
rules must be followed:
1.
During clinical rotations on site and in other facilities: No
jewelry other than a watch, a plain wedding band (no stones), or one pair
of 6mm or less ball type, post style earrings may be worn. No other visible
body piercings (including tongue piercings) are acceptable. Piercings (other
than one permitted ear piercing) must be removed or replaced with a clear or
flesh toned small post. Plugs must also be replaced with skin tone spacers.
2.
During clinical rotations on site and in other facilities: No visible
tattoos are acceptable. Any visible tattoos MUST be totally covered prior to
entering a clinical area when in uniform. The only exception to this is the
hands. Because hands are the greatest source for the spread of infection,
tattoos on the hands are not required to be covered. Such tattoos must not be
offensive in nature.
3.
No nail polish other than clear unchipped polish is allowed. Nails
should be no longer than end of fingertip. Nails must be neat and clean. Artificial nails (to include but not limited
to gel finish, silk tips, Gel finish, shellac) are not permitted.
4.
No perfume or cologne may be worn in the clinical areas.
5.
Make-up should be conservative, including minimal eye make-up.
6.
Only black scrub jackets with Lake Tech Monogram be worn over
uniforms.
7.
Hair must be worn above the collar and away from the face at all times when in clinical lab setting
or at clinical sites.
8.
Eyelashes must be natural in length and appearance.
9.
Good personal hygiene must be observed.
REMEMBER – STUDENTS AT LAKE TECHINCAL COLLEGE
ARE PREPARING FOR EMPLOYMENT IN A POSITION WHERE PUBLIC RELATIONS MUST BE A
MAJOR FACTOR IN ONE’S SUCCESS.
INDIVIDUAL DESIRES CANNOT ALWAYS TAKE PRECEDENCE.
FINANCIAL AID
Policies and
guidelines for the administration of all financial aid are established
according to federal and state law. Applicants complete an information form,
Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and furnish documentation needed to
verify eligibility. More information on the application process may be obtained
in the Financial Aid Office.
The Financial Aid Office will assist students, where possible, with
access to financial support offered by federal agencies (U.S. Department of
Education – Pell Grants, Department of Veterans’ Affairs), other state and
local agencies and local organizations (scholarships).
Emergency
assistance may be available through the Health Science Education Department.
Please speak with faculty for more information.
JOB DESCRIPTION
The
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a person with sufficient educational
background who, under the supervision of a professional nurse or physician,
administers routine services in caring for selected subacute, convalescent, and
chronic patients and assists in the care of the acutely ill.
Qualifications
1.
Education
a.
Graduate of an accredited high school or its equivalent
b.
Graduate of an approved school of nursing
c.
Current registration with the Florida State Board of Nursing
2.
Personal
a.
Maintenance of optimum physical and emotional well being
b.
Competence in the area of practice in which the nurse functions
c.
Evidence of knowledge and ability to use recognized channels of
communication
Function of the LPN
Patient
Care
a.
Observes, records, and reports symptoms and conditions to proper
personnel.
b.
Administers selected medications under the supervision of the
RN.
c.
Must have knowledge of the legal and ethical aspects of
medications, abbreviations used, metric system, household equivalents, standard
dosages, reactions normal and abnormal, and route of administration.
c. Checks
chart, Medication Cart, Electronic Medical Record, and Medication
Administration Records for accuracy.
d. Notes
administration and reaction of medication on patient's chart.
e. Sets
up selected treatment trays and administers treatments not allocated to other
personnel.
f.
Assists physicians with making rounds.
g.
Assists and/or administers selected specialized treatments with
complicated or specialized equipment.
h.
Assists with and/or cares for the acutely ill patients (bathes,
feeds, etc.).
i.
Safeguards integrity of the individual and family.
j.
Applies knowledge of nursing skills and exercises judgment in
their application.
k.
Participates in patient education and rehabilitation.
l.
Understands the provisions of the State Nurse Practice Act in
order to recognize the legal aspects of nursing as it pertains to the
individual.
1.
Unit Management
a.
Utilizes approved channels and methods of communication.
b.
Teaches and directs aides and technicians in selected duties.
c.
Exercises sound judgment in adapting nursing procedures to
individual patient needs.
d.
Participates in in-service programs including on-the-job learning
and unit conferences.
2.
Supervision
a.
Works under the direct supervision of the registered nurse or
physician.
b.
Assists in the supervision of aides and technicians.
Job Opportunities
The
licensed practical nurse may find employment in a varied number of areas such
as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home health agencies, public health,
physicians' offices, school infirmaries, penal institutions, camps, airlines,
passenger ships, industry, private duty, the Peace Corps, and the armed
services. Salary estimates: $34,000 to $40,000 per year or more depending
on area of employment.
PRACTICAL NURSING GENERAL INFORMATION
Program Length
and Hours (1350 hours)
LTC’s
Practical Nursing program is a 1350 hour program (675 hours classroom, 675 hours
clinical/simulated lab) designed to prepare an individual for employment as a Licensed
Practical Nurse. The LPN is generally involved in performing tasks that
contribute to the patient's health or recovery, safety, and comfort. The
program is designed to prepare students for employment as practical nurses who
administer direct nursing care to patients under the direction and supervision
of a licensed physician or registered nurse.
The Florida
State Board of Nursing and the Department of Education provides direction to
the program. As this program is
accredited by both of these agencies, our graduates are eligible to take the
State Board of Nursing examination (NCLEX-PN) to become Licensed Practical
Nurses and thus become practicing members of the health care team.
The State
Board of Nursing reserves the right to deny licensure to any individual who
does not meet the qualifications prescribed by the Nurse Practice Act.
Personal
Qualities/Health Care
The
following qualities are desirable for students studying to become a licensed
practical nurse: good health; good
citizenship; a desire to help people and to have new experiences; a willingness
to accept responsibility; alertness to the needs of others; the ability to get
along with peers and the public; adaptability; honesty; dependability;
promptness; and kindness.
The student
is responsible for his/her health and any health problems. The student must receive any medication or
other care from a personal physician and may not consult with a doctor while on
duty. The student is to report to the faculty
if emergency personal care is needed while on duty. The school reserves the right to require a
physician's statement if there is reason to believe that the student or his/her
patient’s health may be jeopardized in a clinical situation. Any student too ill to perform patient care,
when reporting to the clinical area, will be sent home. Being sent back to the school or to an
observational experience is not an option.
Clinical Experience
Clinical
experiences will be at facilities within Sumter, Lake and surrounding counties
with whom Lake Technical College has formal contractual agreements.
These
experiences include geriatric care, medical-surgical nursing, mental health
care, long term acute care, maternal and newborn care, and pediatrics. Other observations may be made at various
clinics and doctor offices within the central Florida area.
Supply Fee
Includes Lab
kits, pin, and HESI practice assessments and tests.
Textbooks—all
prices and editions subject to change without notice
General Rules
for All PN Students
1. To
protect equipment and furnishings in the classroom and laboratory areas, only drinks
that are in closed, covered containers, are permitted. No other food or drinks
are allowed, unless specific permission is granted by the faculty. However,
under no circumstance may food or drinks be in the laboratory/ computer testing
areas.
2.
No student should be lying on or in laboratory beds unless they
are actively being used as part of a classroom/curriculum activity and under
direct faculty supervision. All beds
used in practice are to be remade with the bedspreads replaced neatly. The nursing lab(s) are clinical areas are to
always be treated as such.
3.
All laboratory equipment should be returned to its proper place
after use. Any broken equipment must be
reported to the faculty for repairs. Students are expected to participate in
all levels of cleanup of the classroom and lab. These areas are to be left in
readiness for the next class. This will include laundering of linens used in
laboratory and will be completed on the clinical site.
4.
ALL CELL
PHONES ARE TO BE TURNED OFF or placed on vibrate DURING CLASS. DEVICES WILL BE ACCESSED ONLY UNDER DIRECT
INSTRUCTION OF THE FACULTY. CELL PHONES
ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE COMPUTER TESTING LAB, PATIENT CARE HOSPITAL OR CLINICAL
SETTING. Any student failing to follow these mandates
will be subject to counseling, and possible dismissal from the program.
5.
No student is allowed in the faculty office without permission.
6.
Conflicts – at any time that conflict arises, for any reason,
during class time or clinical time the student is to avoid a serious
confrontation at all costs. Right or
wrong, students should avoid being part of a bad scenario that would have an
impact on the program. Students should
report to the faculty or department chairperson immediately and allow one of
these individuals to defuse the situation.
Class Officers
Election for class officers will be held in the third month of the
program. In order to be eligible
students may not have any disciplinary written counseling and must be in good
academic standing. This will provide students with the opportunity to learn
parliamentary procedure, develop leadership skills, and allow students to
assume responsibility for class matters. The duties and responsibilities of
each office will be posted prior to selection of a slate of officers. Class
meetings called by the president will be held once a month and will be
approximately 30 minutes in length.
Classroom Rules
Students
will:
1. Maintain a neat, clean, appropriate
appearance
· Uniform dress
code will be adhered to everyday.
· Refrain
from wearing shorts, midriff tops, etc.; these are not appropriate at any time
when in the building.
2.
Demonstrate punctuality.
· Notify a faculty
1 hour prior to scheduled arrival time regarding absences and as soon as
possible regarding tardiness.
· Seek
permission and follow procedure to leave early in the case of emergencies,
schedule all appointments during off time.
· Return from
breaks and meal times at the specified time.
3.
Respect the rights of others.
· Respect
culturally diverse beliefs.
· Be polite.
· Do not talk
to neighbors thus preventing others from learning.
· Respect the
property of others.
· Be patient
and considerate of others.
· Pay
attention.
· Think
before speaking to avoid misunderstanding.
· Do not talk
while others are talking.
· No bullying
(grounds for dismissal from program).
4.
Demonstrate good interpersonal relationships with peers and faculty.
· Exhibit a
congenial and cooperative attitude with others.
· Show
respect for faculty and peers.
· Accept others
for themselves.
5.
Contribute to a learning atmosphere.
· Come to
class prepared.
· Come with
electronic device to assist learning.
· Wait for
recognition before speaking.
· Do not
interrupt class.
· Assist classmates
if able and time is appropriate.
· Contribute
new or pertinent material on topic when appropriate.
6.
Make good use of classroom/lab time.
· Use time
wisely.
· Complete
reading or assignments if no lecture or formal class is in progress.
· Remain
focused and professional when practicing procedures to maximize learning.
· Come prepared
to correctly demonstrate skills for check-offs.
7.
Take responsibility for own learning.
· Be
proactive in contacting faculty with concerns about progress and to attain help
from faculty when needed.
· Submit
assignments on the specified date. In
the event of an absence, submit assignment the first day of the return to class.
· Come to
class prepared by bringing pen, pencil, paper, books, and electronic device.
· Make up
work missed during absence in a timely manner without prompting.
· Complete
reading assignments prior to lecture and participate in class discussions.
· Be responsible
for all assigned books and equipment.
8. Attempt
to do the best possible.
· Try to
achieve full potential.
· Make an
effort to answer questions when called upon.
· Active
participation is encouraged, and contributes to professional skills grade.
9.
Respect school and clinical facility property.
· Always
leave the classroom, lab and conference areas neater than found.
· Do not
deface property of others.
· Be proud of
your school and remember to be an ambassador to the public at all times.
Clinical
Rules
Working during the Program
For students
in the PN program, work is discouraged and should, if possible, be confined to
weekends. A student may not work at the
hospital in which he/she is receiving clinical experience in a capacity which
will conflict with his/her role as a student. Students may practice nursing only
within the units of an approved program in which the student is enrolled and only
under the supervision of a program faculty.
An overnight shift may not be worked prior to any clinical or practicum
experience.
Professionalism and Confidentiality
Nurse’s
practice under a code of ethics which safeguards the patient’s right to privacy
by judiciously protecting information of a confidential nature. As part of the assigned clinical experience,
students will be privy to information about patients, their families,
physicians and employees, which is to be held in strictest of confidence and
discussed ONLY in accordance with professional responsibilities.
Violation of the “confidential communication”
will be grounds for probation and/or recommendation for dismissal in
accordance with program policy.
Hospital Assignment
A schedule
of clinical assignments will be posted prior to the beginning of the clinical
experience. Individual patient
assignments are determined with the guidance of the charge nurse and are the
responsibility of the clinical faculty.
These assignments are based on the students’ ability and classroom
learning.
All nursing
procedures will be satisfactorily demonstrated in the lab prior to attempting
them in the clinical area. Performance
of specific procedures will always be carried out under direct supervision of
the faculty or preceptor nurse, subject to the faculty’s discretion. It is mandatory
that you contact the faculty before completing any skills.
A student MAY
NOT leave the hospital building or assigned facility for ANY reason without permission of the faculty. Because faculty share the responsibility of
the assumed patients it is imperative that the faculty be able to locate the
assigned student within the facility at all times. Students must communicate with
the faculty (via text or call), as well as, the preceptor nurse (in person) when
they are taking breaks/lunch or leaving the assigned area for any reason. The text or call must be made outside the
view of staff, visitors, and patients. The
student is to wait for a direct response from the faculty prior to taking
break/lunch or leaving the assigned area for any reason.
Reporting On and Off Duty
Each
student is expected to arrive promptly and dressed appropriately to perform
nursing duties. Each student is expected
to arrive prior to the assigned time and to receive report from the nurse in
charge. Practice the adage: “If I’m
early, I’m on time, but if I’m on time, I am actually late.” A student may not leave an assignment
incomplete.
Methods of Address
Students
will address each other, the faculty, physicians, all staff members and
patients with respect and consideration.
Patients should be addressed in a respectful, friendly manner but never
in terms of familiarity or endearment. For example: “Good morning Ms. Smith” or
“Hello Ms. Smith” are acceptable. However, the following are all inappropriate
greetings: “hey;” “what’s up;” “sweetie;” and “honey.”
Smoking and Gum
Chewing
Lake
Tech is a tobacco free institution. The use of tobacco products of any kind, including
e-cigarettes, is not permitted at any
Lake Tech location. This includes the parking lots. Smoking is strongly discouraged as it reflects on the
health care profession. Smoking during
clinical hours, in the clinical setting or on clinical properties will not be
tolerated. Also, the smell of cigarette
smoke on a uniform can be offensive.
Students whose uniforms smell of cigarette smoke will be sent home from the
clinical area. Gum chewing is not
allowed in class, clinical or lab experiences.
NOTE: There is to be no gum
chewing in any computer lab.
Practicum
Students
in the Practical Nursing program are required to participate in a practicum
experience. Arrangements for practicum
experiences are to be made by the faculty.
Important points to note: 1) Students will not be assigned to a
practicum site where they may be currently employed, or have been employed
within the previous year from the start date of the practicum experience. 2)
Students will also not be assigned to a practicum site where any immediate
family members, or other relatives are employed. 3)
Students will not be assigned a practicum site where they were
terminated from employment for any reason. 4) Students will not be assigned to
a site (physician’s office) where he/she or a family member are patients. Failure
to disclose information to faculty regarding these four points will result in
removal from practicum experience, disciplinary action and possible dismissal
from the program. Faculty reserve the
right to change a student’s practicum site at any time during the experience.
Capping and Pinning
Upon
completion of the program, a capping and pinning ceremony will be held. This is a traditional ceremony in which those
students who have met the program requirements receive their nursing cap or
equivalent and school pin. Family,
friends and students in other programs are all welcome to attend this ceremony.
Capping and Pinning
Ceremony Dues – students in practical nursing programs may be asked to pay a
moderate amount for dues to be used toward a capping and pinning ceremony. Paid
dues are non-refundable after the program reaches the start of the PN2 course in
the 16-17 curriculum or by the end of PRN 0099, Practical Nursing Foundations 2
course in the 17-18 curriculum. Dues will reside in the class account.
Lake
Technical College Nursing Pin
The Lake Technical College Nursing Pin is your
“rite-of-passage” into the noble profession of nursing. The pin not only signifies your successful
completion of all program requirements, but directly ties you to thousands of
Lake Technical College Practical Nursing graduates who began their journey in
this very program, many of whom are still practicing today. Wear it proudly!
NOTE: The Lake Technical College nursing pins are
custom made for each student. Each individual pin has the student’s initials
engraved on the back. For this reason,
the pins must be ordered well in advance of the completion of the program. The pin is part of your program fees. In the
unfortunate event that a student is not able to complete the program, the
student will not receive the pin nor will he/she receive a refund after the
pins are ordered
Licensure
Students
will make application to the State Board of Nursing to take the National
Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). This exam is presented in a computerized
adaptive testing (CAT) format. A passing
score on this exam as well as fulfilling State Board of Nursing requirements
allows for licensure as a practical nurse.
During the
application process students convicted of any offense other than a minor
traffic violation are required to submit a copy of their arrest and court records
to the State Board of Nursing and may be required to appear before the Board
prior to being granted permission to sit for the licensure examination.
Follow Up
Lake
Technical College is proud of its graduates and celebrates the next step
graduates take whether it is employment, military or further education. Prior
to completing, students may visit the Career Success Center for assistance with
employability skills such as resume writing. In addition, faculty may provide
students with employment leads. However, it is up to the individual student to
actively pursue employment opportunities. We like to hear how our graduates are
doing and want to celebrate your successes so be sure to communicate with your faculty
any employment, military, or further education you enter. Students are required to
participate in an Exit Interview prior to their last day in their program.
COMPETENCY STANDARDS
Numerical grade
requirements, hours of attendance, and demonstrated proficiency in the
following competency standards are hereby certified in the l350-hour program in
the Health Science Education Practical Nursing program.
Florida
Department of Education Curriculum Frameworks for Practical Nursing
(Postsecondary)
The
full content may be obtained on The
Florida Department of Education website.
HEALTH
SCIENCES PROGRAMS—LPN
STUDENT
FORMS
(Print
for review, signature and return to the Health Sciences Office)
SUBSTANCE ABUSE STATEMENT
I
understand and agree that any student in possession of, using, or under the
influence of alcoholic beverages, any illegal substances or drugs, or any
prescription drugs that are not prescribed for that individual on the school
grounds or at any assigned clinical facility, will be subject to immediate
dismissal from the program or any other disciplinary action that is deemed
appropriate by administration. I also understand that any student convicted of,
pleading no contest, or entering into any form of pre-trial program for the
use, possession, manufacture, distribution or being under the influence of any
of the above listed items or substances, regardless of where the alleged
offense occurs, will be subject to immediate dismissal from the program.
As
determined by Lake Technical College Board policy, law enforcement agencies
shall be notified.
Student Signature:
___________________________________________ Date:
____________
STATEMENT OF RECEIPT AND UNDERSTANDING OF POLICIES
I have
received a copy of the Practical Nursing Master Plan of Instruction.
I have
read, asked for clarification if needed, understand, and agree to comply with
all policies contained therein.
I
understand that failure to comply with these policies may result in the
termination of my program.
Print
Name: DATE:
Signature:
LAKE TECH
HEALTH
SCIENCES PROGRAMS
Student Confidentiality
Statement
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Health Science Education 2001 Kurt Street Eustis, FL 32726 (352) 589-2250, ext. 1843 Fax (352) 357-1381
LPN PROGRAM PHYSICAL EXAM
I certify that the above examination was performed in
this office. ____________________________________________________________________ Examining
Physician /Nurse Practitioner
Date SIGNATURE ________________________________________ PRINT
Examining Physician /Nurse Practitioner LABORATORY TESTS AND IMMUNIZATIONS STUDENT NAME
______________________
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Option for Background
Checks for HSE Students
HSE Students are required to have a level 2 background check. While there
are many companies that offer this service, the following represents the least
expensive way we have found to meet this requirement. Do CAREFULLY follow the instructions.
You may do this through Lake County Sheriff’s office, by following these
steps:
Go to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office 360 W. Ruby Street Tavares, FL
If you are a Lake County resident, fingerprint services are free to
students. You must present your state issued picture ID, which must reflect
your Lake County address
If you are not a Lake County resident the fee is $25.00. You may want to
check with your own County’s Sheriff’s Office to see if they offer a free
service for students
Once you have been electronically fingerprinted you will need to go
online to Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Civil Applicant Payment
System, and register with them using the Transaction Control Number (TCN) which
was provided to you by the fingerprinting entity. (Lake County Sheriff’s Office)
When registering it is IMPORTANT
YOUR NAME IS ENTERED EXACTLY AS IT IS STATED ON YOUR FINGERPRINTS.
For your program admission
background check, you will need to use Lake
Technical College’s ORI number
V35020011, this is to ensure that your results are received by LTC’s Health
Science Department Chairperson. The cost for registering with FDLE for initial
background check for Lake Technical College’s ORI number is $28.00. (Prices are
subject to change without notice).
6/1/2017
kp